What to Do If You Get Caught Out with Sunburn

We’ve all been there, you head out for “just a little bit of sun,” and before you know it, your skin is red, tight, and painfully warm. Sunburn can sneak up quickly in hot climates and especially with the Lanzarote breeze masking the heat.

If you do get caught out, the key is to act fast and treat your skin gently to reduce damage, ease discomfort, and support healing

As soon as you notice your skin turning pink or feeling sensitive, get out of direct sunlight immediately. Continuing exposure will only worsen the burn and increase inflammation.

Find shade, go indoors, or cover up with loose, breathable clothing.

Sunburned skin holds heat, so your first goal is to cool it.

• Take a cool (not cold) shower or bath
• Apply a cool, damp cloth to the affected area
• Avoid ice directly on the skin, this can cause further damage

Let your skin air dry or gently pat it dry, don’t rub.

Sunburn draws fluid to the skin’s surface, which can leave you dehydrated.

• Drink plenty of water throughout the day
• Use a gentle, hydrating moisturizer to prevent dryness

Look for products that are alcohol-free and fragrance-free to avoid irritation

One of the most effective and natural remedies is pure aloe vera.

Aloe vera:

• Soothes inflammation
• Provides a cooling sensation
• Helps the skin repair itself

If possible, use natural aloe vera straight from the plant. Simply break a leaf, extract the gel, and apply it directly to the skin.

If you’re using a store-bought version, choose one with a high percentage of aloe and minimal additives.

While aloe vera is a top choice, there are several other options that can help relieve sunburn:

1. After-Sun Lotions

Specially formulated to calm sun-exposed skin, these often include soothing ingredients like:

• Aloe vera
• Chamomile
• Vitamin E

2. Coconut Oil (Use Carefully)

Coconut oil can help with dryness after the initial heat has subsided, but avoid using it on fresh burns as it can trap heat in the skin.

3. Oatmeal Baths

Adding colloidal oatmeal to a lukewarm bath can:

• Reduce itching
• Calm irritated skin

4. Over-the-Counter Pain Relief

Medications like ibuprofen can help reduce:

• Pain
• Swelling
• Inflammation

Always follow dosage instructions.

5. Hydrocortisone Cream

A mild steroid cream can help reduce redness and itching for more uncomfortable burns.

When dealing with sunburn, certain things can make it worse:

• Avoid tight clothing that rubs against the skin
• Don’t pop blisters, they protect healing skin
• Skip harsh soaps or exfoliants
• Avoid products with alcohol, perfume, or strong chemical

Most sunburns heal on their own within a few days, but seek medical advice if you experience:

• Severe blistering
• Fever or chills
• Dizziness or nausea
• Signs of dehydration

These could indicate a more serious burn or sun poisoning

Sunburn isn’t just uncomfortable, it’s a sign of skin damage. Treating it properly can make a big difference in how quickly and comfortably your skin heals.

Natural remedies like aloe vera are simple, effective, and widely trusted, making them a go-to solution when you’ve overdone it in the sun.

And once you’ve recovered? Take it as a reminder — sunscreen, shade, and protective clothing are always worth it.